Autumn Blaze Maple

The Autumn Blaze maple (Acer × freemanii 'Autumn Blaze') is a popular hybrid tree known for its vibrant fall foliage and rapid growth. Here's a description of the Autumn Blaze maple:

1. Origin and Hybrid Nature: Autumn Blaze maple is a hybrid between two species: red maple (Acer rubrum) and silver maple (Acer saccharinum). It was developed to combine the fast growth of silver maple with the brilliant fall color and adaptability of red maple.

2. Size and Shape: It typically grows to a height of 50 to 60 feet (15 to 18 meters) and a spread of 40 to 50 feet (12 to 15 meters). The tree has a symmetrical oval to rounded crown with ascending branches. It forms a dense canopy that provides ample shade.

3. Bark: The bark of Autumn Blaze maple is smooth and gray when young, becoming furrowed with age. It has a somewhat similar appearance to the bark of its parent species, red maple.

4. Leaves: The leaves of Autumn Blaze maple are opposite and palmately lobed with three to five lobes. They are typically 3 to 6 inches (8 to 15 cm) long and wide, and their margins are finely serrated. In spring and summer, the leaves are green and provide a lush backdrop.

5. Flowers: Like its parent species, Autumn Blaze maple is dioecious, meaning individual trees have either male or female flowers. The small flowers appear in early spring before the leaves emerge. They are red or yellowish-green and borne in clusters.

6. Fall Foliage: One of the most outstanding features of Autumn Blaze maple is its brilliant fall foliage. As autumn approaches, the green leaves transform into vibrant shades of orange-red to scarlet, creating a stunning display of color. The intense coloration is often more uniform and vivid compared to many other maple varieties.

7. Habitat and Landscape Use: Autumn Blaze maple is adaptable to various soil types and moisture conditions, although it prefers well-drained soils. It is widely planted as a shade tree and ornamental tree in residential areas, parks, and along streets due to its fast growth rate and striking autumn colors.

8. Maintenance: This hybrid maple is known for its relatively low maintenance requirements once established. It is tolerant of urban conditions, including air pollution and compacted soils.

9. Cultural Significance: Autumn Blaze maple has become a beloved tree in landscaping for its combination of desirable traits from both parent species. It is valued for its ability to provide shade, its attractive appearance throughout the growing season, and especially for the spectacular show it puts on in the fall.

In summary, Autumn Blaze maple is a hybrid tree that combines the best characteristics of red maple and silver maple, offering rapid growth, a symmetrical crown, and stunning autumn foliage that makes it a favorite choice for residential and urban landscapes.